Graduate student Keri Blair publishes journal article spotlighting equestrianism in early modern England

Purdue University Department of History graduate student Keri Blair has recently published a journal article, “The Great Show”: Ritualistic Equestrianism in the Coronation of King Charles II, 1661, in the most recent edition of Cheiron: The International Journal of Equine and Equestrian History.

Blair is a third-year PhD student advised by Dr. Melinda Zook. Her research explores the intricate relationship between horses and society in early modern England, focusing particularly on their pivotal role in ceremonial life. She examines how the breeding, training, and care of horses reflected broader cultural values and social hierarchies.

Blair notes that academic scholars in the field have explored the multitude of ways in which symbolism was embedded in horse culture through art, literature, and material sources. “In this paper, I seek to draw attention to an instance where emblematic equestrianism was embedded within a deeply religious and ceremonial setting, while also providing insight into the symbolic nature of horse culture in early modern England,” Blair explains.

Learn more about Keri Blair at this link: https://cla.purdue.edu/directory/profiles/keri-blair.html

Read the complete journal article at this link.